As I sat glued to the livestream of the Earth Wisdom Keepers session at the Davos World Economic Forum, I couldn't help but swell with pride and a sense of urgency. There, my sister, Ann Dumaliang, co-founder and trustee of the Masungi Georeserve Foundation in the Philippines, was addressing a global audience. Her message? A bold call for intergenerational unity in the face of the climate crisis.

Ann's words at Davos were not just a message; they were a clarion call for action. She emphasized the critical need for engaging youth in meaningful conversations about climate change. It's a sentiment that resonates deeply with me as her sister and as someone equally passionate about conservation. We've witnessed firsthand at Masungi how the synergy of various generations can create impactful environmental stewardship.

Ann pointed out that human ingenuity is our beacon of hope amid the climate and biodiversity crises. This notion is particularly poignant. In our work at Masungi, we’ve seen how innovative solutions can emerge when people from diverse backgrounds and ages collaborate. The challenge, as Ann rightly noted, is in regaining trust – in each other and in the strengths we bring to the table.

Her call for a harmonious relationship with nature and the necessity to listen to environmental defenders, scientists, and indigenous wisdom keepers struck a chord. In the Philippines, where the beauty of nature is often overshadowed by environmental threats, this message is especially crucial. We need to overcome our "ecological amnesia" and reconnect with our natural roots. Only then can we truly understand and protect our environment.

I was also moved by the words of the renowned primatologist Jane Goodall, who echoed Ann's sentiments. Goodall’s optimism in the power of youth and nature’s resilience is a beacon of hope. She's right – there’s an unstoppable force in educated and empowered young people. In our projects, we’ve seen the transformative power that young, passionate individuals hold.

We’ve witnessed how their voices and energy can hold power to account or protect an entire landscape, one threat at a time. In late 2023, over 3,000 youths and residents of Rizal province filed a formal petition to their representatives in Congress to support our conservation project. The youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the changemakers of today.

This year's theme at Davos, "Rebuilding Trust," couldn't be more apt. The annual meeting, attended by over 60 heads of state and governments and 800 leading business executives, set the stage for a much-needed global dialogue. But as Ann's speech highlighted, this dialogue must transcend boardrooms and political chambers. It must resonate in the classrooms, in local communities, and within every household.

As I reflect on Ann’s words in Davos, I am reminded of our shared responsibility. Climate action isn’t a solo endeavor; it’s a chorus that requires voices from all generations. It's about creating a symphony where the wisdom of the old complements the innovation of the young. And most importantly, it's about rebuilding trust – not just among ourselves, but with the very planet that sustains us.

Moving forward, let us heed Ann's call. Let us bridge generational gaps, listen to those guarding our ecosystems, and collaborate for a sustainable future. The time for action is now, and it's a journey we must embark on together.